What You CAN DO
As a black woman AND an empath, I’ve found myself speechless and heavy-hearted lately.
The tragic killings of George Flyod, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and so many more- has compounded a complexity of feelings toward year 2020.
If you’re like me, maybe you too are a bit overwhelmed yet hungry for change. If this is in fact you, I urge you to be okay with taking a moment to process your feelings. Refuel your mind and heart ,THEN find your fit in the fight for progress.
If you’re not sure how to feel or maybe you don’t feel anything- i urge you to simply talk to those (you feel close to) who are members of the black community.
My request today is simple- do something because doing nothing is symbolic of your willing and active participation in the injustice.
Not sure what you CAN do?
Here are four easy ways you can support the black community during this time:
Support Black businesses
Commit to spending money with a black business at least twice a week. Go out of your way to show black business owners that you appreciate the superpower they are bringing to the marketplace and are in support of their success.
Donate to the cause http://www.blacklivesmatterdmv.org/
The best way to show support is with your time and money. Consider donating to causes that are working to create awareness and fight for reform.
Commit to talking about racism with loved ones
Show up with your words. In your intimate time with friends and family, ask them:
- How comfortable are you talking about race and why?
- What stereotypes do you subconsciously use that may create discriminatory biases of black men and women? Do these biases impact your interactions with black men and women?
Can you confidently explain the following terms to a public group? Red lining, racial bias, white fragility, white privilege, and white supremacy.
If you can not comfortably explain these terms or would not feel comfortable explaining these terms- it’s time to pick up a good book to increase your understanding and awareness of these prevalent issues. The more knowledgeable you are, the more you can show up for those in the black community.
And we need your support.
Let’s keep raising awareness!